MINI Countryman Priced From US$22,350

December 2010 marks the launch of the much anticipated MINI vehicle that is the first to have four doors and a longer wheelbase: the MINI Countryman. It will be sold at US$22,350. This is quite a competitive price since its only US$550 more expensive that the MINI Clubman wagon. A fully equipped MINI Countryman Cooper S will not exceed the price tag of US$30,000.

President of MINI USA Jim McDowell said: “The Countryman is a game-changer for us. We are going from extra-small to small.” This is part of MINI’s effort to increase sales by offering a wider selection of vehicles. The MINI Countryman specifically targets those who have always wanted the design of MINI, but needs more space for their daily use. The MINI Countryman is a cross between a MINI and and SUV.

An ALL4 all-wheel drive option is available too. It can easily provide generous legroom, headroom and shoulder room for four passengers. The rear seats can be moved forwards and backwards which allows luggage capacity to be increased from 350 liters to 1,170 liters. The MINI Countryman is powered by a 120-horsepower 1.6-liter inline-4 engine capable of 180-horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Customers can also choose from a six-speed manual transmission standard or a six-speed automatic.